What do you think?
Rate this book
The Hitler Years #1
The Hitler Years: Triumph
In 1933, Adolf Hitler came to power in a coup. In a few months he installed a dictatorship, jailing and killing his leftwing opponents, terrorising the rest of the population and driving Jews out of public life.
He embarked on a crash programme of militaristic Keynesianism, reviving the economy and achieving full employment through massive public works, vast armaments spending and the cancellation of foreign debts. After the grim years of the Great Depression, Germany seemed to have been reborn as a brutal and determined European power intent on avenging the mythical 'stab in the back' that had led to defeat in 1918.
As Frank McDonough shows in this masterly popular history of the years from 1933 to 1939, Hitler won over most of the population to his vision of a renewed Reich. But what drove Hitler was also the fatal flaw of his regime: a relentless belief in war as the motor of greatness, a dream of vast conquests in Eastern Europe and an astonishingly fanatical racism.
In these years of domestic triumph, cunning manoeuvres, playing neighbouring powers off against each other and biding his time, we see Hitler preparing for the moment that would realise his ambition. This first volume ends with Hitler's successful manipulation of Chamberlain at Munich in 1938. Now, apparently, nothing could stand in his way...
He embarked on a crash programme of militaristic Keynesianism, reviving the economy and achieving full employment through massive public works, vast armaments spending and the cancellation of foreign debts. After the grim years of the Great Depression, Germany seemed to have been reborn as a brutal and determined European power intent on avenging the mythical 'stab in the back' that had led to defeat in 1918.
As Frank McDonough shows in this masterly popular history of the years from 1933 to 1939, Hitler won over most of the population to his vision of a renewed Reich. But what drove Hitler was also the fatal flaw of his regime: a relentless belief in war as the motor of greatness, a dream of vast conquests in Eastern Europe and an astonishingly fanatical racism.
In these years of domestic triumph, cunning manoeuvres, playing neighbouring powers off against each other and biding his time, we see Hitler preparing for the moment that would realise his ambition. This first volume ends with Hitler's successful manipulation of Chamberlain at Munich in 1938. Now, apparently, nothing could stand in his way...
480 pages, Paperback
First published November 14, 2019
About the author
Frank McDonough
19 books119 followersProfessor Frank McDonough is an internationally renowned expert on the Third Reich. He was born in Liverpool, studied history at Balliol College, Oxford and gained a PhD from Lancaster University.
He has written many critically acclaimed books on the Third Reich, including: The Gestapo: The Myth and Reality of Hitler’s Secret Police (2015). Hitler and the Rise of the Nazi Party (2012), Sophie Scholl: The Woman Who Defied Hitler (2009), The Holocaust (2008), Opposition and Resistance in Nazi Germany (2001), Hitler, Chamberlain and Appeasement (2002), and Hitler and Nazi Germany (1999). He has also published many other books, most notably, The Origins of the Second World War: An International Perspective (2011), The Conservative Party and Anglo-German Relations (2007), Chamberlain, Appeasement and the British Road to War (1998) and The Origins of the First and Second World Wars (1997).
He has written many critically acclaimed books on the Third Reich, including: The Gestapo: The Myth and Reality of Hitler’s Secret Police (2015). Hitler and the Rise of the Nazi Party (2012), Sophie Scholl: The Woman Who Defied Hitler (2009), The Holocaust (2008), Opposition and Resistance in Nazi Germany (2001), Hitler, Chamberlain and Appeasement (2002), and Hitler and Nazi Germany (1999). He has also published many other books, most notably, The Origins of the Second World War: An International Perspective (2011), The Conservative Party and Anglo-German Relations (2007), Chamberlain, Appeasement and the British Road to War (1998) and The Origins of the First and Second World Wars (1997).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
March 10, 2021
Be fairly warned, it's fairly anecdotal. Rather tertiary, with heavy doses of Evans and Kershaw* to frame events. Plenty of photographs, some of which I've never seen in colour, such as Hitler & Hindenburg the day he was appointed chancellor. Good for a cursive read late in the evening.
That said, he succeeds where 1938 Hitler's Gamble failed, with less space per year.
Each gets a chapter in strictly chronological fashion, so some knowledge is a plus if you don't want to befriend the index on the origins of the Munch conference or the Molotov Pact.
Yet the people who lived through these times to write about them didn't have a crystal ball. Even the Jews felt short periods of lesser alarm prior to the Kristallnacht. We get to feel how Europe is led blindfolded on the slope to war by a Regular Statesman, who wears the mask of peace during interviews with the foreign press until the last moment.
P.S. "The Western Pact", the stillborn successor to Locarno, is one index entry you'll want to use. It's a story of unfulfilled hopes that's often left behind to save room for the gallant Poles.
*Hitler by Ian Kershaw & The Third Reich in Power by Richard J. Evans
That said, he succeeds where 1938 Hitler's Gamble failed, with less space per year.
Each gets a chapter in strictly chronological fashion, so some knowledge is a plus if you don't want to befriend the index on the origins of the Munch conference or the Molotov Pact.
Yet the people who lived through these times to write about them didn't have a crystal ball. Even the Jews felt short periods of lesser alarm prior to the Kristallnacht. We get to feel how Europe is led blindfolded on the slope to war by a Regular Statesman, who wears the mask of peace during interviews with the foreign press until the last moment.
P.S. "The Western Pact", the stillborn successor to Locarno, is one index entry you'll want to use. It's a story of unfulfilled hopes that's often left behind to save room for the gallant Poles.
*Hitler by Ian Kershaw & The Third Reich in Power by Richard J. Evans
January 5, 2024
This is the first of two books, chronicling the ‘Hitler Years.’ This first volume takes the reader from 1933 to1939. The second volume, Disaster, covers the years 1940-1945.
At the beginning of 1933, newspaper reports were gleefully suggesting that Hitler’s popularity had peaked. However, Hitler was re-grouping and was aware he needed to gain mainstream political power, if he was to go further. Of course, 1933 was the year that Hitler became Chancellor and, while career politicians thought that Hitler could be kept in check, they were quickly to learn their mistake. Still, Hitler was, in these early years, willing to present a more statesmanlike, and less threatening, persona, to those he needed to establish himself – while, at the Reichstag, politicians felt threatened and intimidated and Dachau, the first concentration camp in Germany, opened…
If you are looking for an overview of these years; of how Hitler established power and ruthlessly dealt with those in opposition, then this is an excellent read. It takes you through all of the major events of those years; the night of the long knives, the death of Hindenburg, the 1936 Olympics, Kristalllnacht, talks with Neville Chamberlain, and more, as Europe marched, again, into war.
Although this book covers a lot of ground, it is detailed enough to be more than an overview and, as the title suggests, keeps Hitler, and his motives, central to events. This is an excellent look at the years leading up to WWII and I look forward to reading the second volume, which I intend to embark on next.
At the beginning of 1933, newspaper reports were gleefully suggesting that Hitler’s popularity had peaked. However, Hitler was re-grouping and was aware he needed to gain mainstream political power, if he was to go further. Of course, 1933 was the year that Hitler became Chancellor and, while career politicians thought that Hitler could be kept in check, they were quickly to learn their mistake. Still, Hitler was, in these early years, willing to present a more statesmanlike, and less threatening, persona, to those he needed to establish himself – while, at the Reichstag, politicians felt threatened and intimidated and Dachau, the first concentration camp in Germany, opened…
If you are looking for an overview of these years; of how Hitler established power and ruthlessly dealt with those in opposition, then this is an excellent read. It takes you through all of the major events of those years; the night of the long knives, the death of Hindenburg, the 1936 Olympics, Kristalllnacht, talks with Neville Chamberlain, and more, as Europe marched, again, into war.
Although this book covers a lot of ground, it is detailed enough to be more than an overview and, as the title suggests, keeps Hitler, and his motives, central to events. This is an excellent look at the years leading up to WWII and I look forward to reading the second volume, which I intend to embark on next.
October 10, 2021
Have you read William Shirer's The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich? Are you interested in early the mid 20th century Germany and the runup to WWII? If so, this is right up your alley (as is volume two, Disaster, which I am reading now).
Triumph is an orderly, year by year examination of Hitler's rise to power. note that it helps immensely if you are aware f the events between the Treaty of Versailles and 1933, including Hitler's personal life during that time and the people he collects around him along the way.
Each chapter details the events occurring in that year, ranging from what Hitler and his cronies were doing, to the economy of Germany as a whole and cities like Berlin in particular, to what was happening in the arts, continued German recovery from the disastrous debt assigned to them by the Allies after WWI, government policies, and so on., Rest assured that other governments are not spared a look - the appeaser Neville Chamberlain, for instance, is there on the page. There is also time spent detailing how other countries viewed Germany and Hitler in his role. Some were convinced that everyday Germans would toss him out, while others laughed at the cartoonish thug, and others began sounding the alarms about the megalomaniac who had methodically made his way to Chancellor.
I often hesitate to use the word "comprehensive', as typically it does not accurately describe the reality of the pages in the book, but McDonough has done an excellent and, yes, a comprehensive job of moving the reader through these formative years of complete Nazi control of Germany's government.
Incredibly interesting as well as eminently readable, this is a fine addition to the oeuvre of WWII books that focus on Hitler.
Five out of five stars.
Thanks to St Martin's Press and NetGalley for the reading copy.
Triumph is an orderly, year by year examination of Hitler's rise to power. note that it helps immensely if you are aware f the events between the Treaty of Versailles and 1933, including Hitler's personal life during that time and the people he collects around him along the way.
Each chapter details the events occurring in that year, ranging from what Hitler and his cronies were doing, to the economy of Germany as a whole and cities like Berlin in particular, to what was happening in the arts, continued German recovery from the disastrous debt assigned to them by the Allies after WWI, government policies, and so on., Rest assured that other governments are not spared a look - the appeaser Neville Chamberlain, for instance, is there on the page. There is also time spent detailing how other countries viewed Germany and Hitler in his role. Some were convinced that everyday Germans would toss him out, while others laughed at the cartoonish thug, and others began sounding the alarms about the megalomaniac who had methodically made his way to Chancellor.
I often hesitate to use the word "comprehensive', as typically it does not accurately describe the reality of the pages in the book, but McDonough has done an excellent and, yes, a comprehensive job of moving the reader through these formative years of complete Nazi control of Germany's government.
Incredibly interesting as well as eminently readable, this is a fine addition to the oeuvre of WWII books that focus on Hitler.
Five out of five stars.
Thanks to St Martin's Press and NetGalley for the reading copy.
July 14, 2020
Masterpiece.
This is a fascinating book. It exposes the weaknesses of Britain and France’s responses to the aggressive arrogance of Hitler and his cohorts. The brutality of the Third Reich towards its own people and to all others who challenged Hitler and his Nazi dreams are shockingly illustrated in this book. I have read several books on Hitler by eminent historians but this in my opinion is, by far, the best covering 1933 to 1939. Looking forward to reading volume 2.
This is a fascinating book. It exposes the weaknesses of Britain and France’s responses to the aggressive arrogance of Hitler and his cohorts. The brutality of the Third Reich towards its own people and to all others who challenged Hitler and his Nazi dreams are shockingly illustrated in this book. I have read several books on Hitler by eminent historians but this in my opinion is, by far, the best covering 1933 to 1939. Looking forward to reading volume 2.
June 23, 2021
Be warned: if you’re not a major history buff and a fan of footnotes, you will likely want to stay away from this first of two volumes chronicling Hitler’s rise to power and first forays into the spread of the Reich. Densely packed with a chronological layout, this detailed-oriented and anecdotally interspersed work is a real beast. Kudos on the research needed to pack so much in a short space!
Thank you to Netgalley and St Martin’s Press for my free copy. These opinions are my own.
Thank you to Netgalley and St Martin’s Press for my free copy. These opinions are my own.
May 30, 2021
I received an advance review copy from the publisher, via Netgalley.
This is a general history of the Hitler era to the 1939 invasion of Poland, and it’s organized chronologically, rather than thematically. Economic, military, domestic and foreign policy, as well as social life and issues in Germany are all part of the story. McDonough covers both Hitler’s public and private life, making some interesting points about what he did to keep them separate, including having few of his close political associates be part of his social set at Berchtesgaden.
I would say the only thing that doesn’t get as much attention as I expected is the backgrounds and activities of Hitler’s inner circle. (This is an observation, not a criticism. There are plenty of books that go into great detail about Göring, Goebbels, Himmler, Hess, Ribbentrop, Bormann, Speer, Heydrich and others. I remember being impressed some years ago by Anthony Read’s The Devil’s Disciples: Hitler’s Inner Circle.)
The chronological presentation, with a mix of political and personal topics in the same chapters, and McDonough’s fluid and accessible writing style give the book an immediacy not often found in history books.
I recommend this to anyone interested in a general history of Hitler and the Third Reich, whether new to the subject or already familiar with the topic. I look forward to the second volume.
This is a general history of the Hitler era to the 1939 invasion of Poland, and it’s organized chronologically, rather than thematically. Economic, military, domestic and foreign policy, as well as social life and issues in Germany are all part of the story. McDonough covers both Hitler’s public and private life, making some interesting points about what he did to keep them separate, including having few of his close political associates be part of his social set at Berchtesgaden.
I would say the only thing that doesn’t get as much attention as I expected is the backgrounds and activities of Hitler’s inner circle. (This is an observation, not a criticism. There are plenty of books that go into great detail about Göring, Goebbels, Himmler, Hess, Ribbentrop, Bormann, Speer, Heydrich and others. I remember being impressed some years ago by Anthony Read’s The Devil’s Disciples: Hitler’s Inner Circle.)
The chronological presentation, with a mix of political and personal topics in the same chapters, and McDonough’s fluid and accessible writing style give the book an immediacy not often found in history books.
I recommend this to anyone interested in a general history of Hitler and the Third Reich, whether new to the subject or already familiar with the topic. I look forward to the second volume.
June 18, 2021
This is a very detailed account of Hitler’s rise to power in the early years of 1933-1939. I definitely want to read the second volume, since it ended a bit abruptly just as the political scene around the world was getting precarious.
The book goes through each year, illustrating Hitler’s political savvy and deception. It helps if readers have some idea of what was happening during these years. I found it interesting that one of the Mitford girls from England was mentioned several times as being a close friend of Hitler’s. Having previously read about the Mitford family, this resonated with me.
What was most chilling about reading this in today’s political climate are the similarities that show up—most especially what is and is not reported to the public. On the other hand, he may have been stopped much sooner it he attempted the same scenario in the present day.
Be prepared to keep track of many names and branches of office mentioned throughout, both from Germany and several other countries. This is a long book and not an especially fast read, but definitely one that will be of interest.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for allowing me to read an advance copy and offer my honest review.
January 27, 2022
With so many Hitler/Third Reich histories around, it really takes special skill to rise above the rest. The Hitler Years' claim to originality is the year-by-year structure, which, especially for the first years before the war, is a fresh approach. However, the book does not quite reach the heights of Kershaw's biography or Evans's masterful trilogy. McDonough relies much more on foreign--overwhelmingly British--reports and perspectives on the Third Reich than Kershaw or Evans. After around 1936, the foreign policy and military view takes over, so we learn precious little about the life of Germans themselves. There is a section on German Jews and a little bit about culture (the usual decadent art stuff), but very little about social history. A good intro for a first-time reader/listener, but not quite on par with the abovementioned.
June 11, 2021
Volume 1: Triumph 1933-1939
This is an intricate portrait of Adolf Hitler’s political rise and the Nazification of Germany. The author presents Hitler as a master of flexibility and improvisation in his takeover of the German government. The country’s economy was weakened after the Great Depression and the promises he made to end unemployment and to take a grip on the nation’s finances struck a chord with the middle-class. Hitler became chancellor in 1933. Mr. McDonough delves deeply into those years: from the rise and fall of the Third Reich. The volume #1 ends after the military defeat of Poland in 1939.
A chapter is dedicated to each year and chronicles the major events during that time the narrative presents an excellent overview. The book in whole covers a lot of ground from political to personal topics. Although the style is fluid I found this topic not to be an easy read, actually I had a very hard time keeping up with what was said. What a terrible beginning: the brutal violence was astonishing, heinous deeds began such as forced sterilization, aggressive zeal and passionate hatred towards groups I can go on and on this and the book tells all, no wonder it led to worst time. In some ways this is a fascinating book that highlights the aggressive arrogance of Hitler and his cohorts and how weak and slow were Britain and France to response to the brutality against the people of Germany.
I am a huge fan of non-fiction even fiction set during the war time but rarely had I the chance to read books during the pre-war years “The Hitler’s Years” opened my eyes with its breathtaking information, numerous photos and footnotes. If you want clarity on events leading to the war in Europe, this account is worth well giving it a try. But be ready lots is transmitted that can be overwhelming.....
I was given the opportunity to read this ARC from St-Martin Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
This is an intricate portrait of Adolf Hitler’s political rise and the Nazification of Germany. The author presents Hitler as a master of flexibility and improvisation in his takeover of the German government. The country’s economy was weakened after the Great Depression and the promises he made to end unemployment and to take a grip on the nation’s finances struck a chord with the middle-class. Hitler became chancellor in 1933. Mr. McDonough delves deeply into those years: from the rise and fall of the Third Reich. The volume #1 ends after the military defeat of Poland in 1939.
A chapter is dedicated to each year and chronicles the major events during that time the narrative presents an excellent overview. The book in whole covers a lot of ground from political to personal topics. Although the style is fluid I found this topic not to be an easy read, actually I had a very hard time keeping up with what was said. What a terrible beginning: the brutal violence was astonishing, heinous deeds began such as forced sterilization, aggressive zeal and passionate hatred towards groups I can go on and on this and the book tells all, no wonder it led to worst time. In some ways this is a fascinating book that highlights the aggressive arrogance of Hitler and his cohorts and how weak and slow were Britain and France to response to the brutality against the people of Germany.
I am a huge fan of non-fiction even fiction set during the war time but rarely had I the chance to read books during the pre-war years “The Hitler’s Years” opened my eyes with its breathtaking information, numerous photos and footnotes. If you want clarity on events leading to the war in Europe, this account is worth well giving it a try. But be ready lots is transmitted that can be overwhelming.....
I was given the opportunity to read this ARC from St-Martin Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
July 25, 2021
Easy to read, yet comprehensive.
This is a great book for a University class. Facts.
My take on the book does not concern Hitler.
Neville Chamberlain was an absolute self obsessed idiot.
This is a great book for a University class. Facts.
My take on the book does not concern Hitler.
Neville Chamberlain was an absolute self obsessed idiot.
January 4, 2022
Quite a dense, but enjoyable, book about the journey of Hitler and the Nazi party from them coming to power in 1933 to just after the start of the Second Word War in 1939. Can’t wait read the second volume!
Read
July 10, 2021One of the truly outstanding new books of the year, McDonough very methodically and thoroughly charts Hitler's regime from its legal installation in 1933, and the cynical enablers who helped him along the way. I've read widely on the Nazi era, but quite a few revelations surprised me in this book, chief among them was the myth of Germany's improved living standards during the '30s, (much exaggerated, and still far below the U.S. and even Britain and France) and the glaring revelation that for most people, Hitler's regime was less repressive than the Soviet Union under Stalin. This book starts with Germany's governmental crisis in the winter of 1932-'33 and ends with the end of 1939, with Germany ruling over Poland, and the "phony war" standoff in the west. This book will have you googling German generals and politicians for weeks. Highly recommended.
December 18, 2022
Chronologically lays out the events leading up to the start of ww2 in a way that keeps the reader captivated. Shows more of the personality of different leaders than I was expecting, which was a pleasant surprise.
July 20, 2024
Has more narrative value than analytical value, and its ceaseless flow of event after event may get tedious at times, but as a detailed political history, it works.
June 7, 2021
This is a very thorough chronological overview of Adolf Hitler’s political activities from 1933 through the end of 1939. This overview touches on the related activities of other politicians in the run-up to World War II as well. A small amount of personal information is given about Hitler, Eva Braun, and others connected to the main political thread. This narrative includes a lot about Neville Chamberlain and Anthony Eden as they were frequently on the receiving end of Hitler’s requests, and later demands. Detail about the involvement of Goebbels and Göring is highlighted, but also that of many others who have not figured largely in books and documentaries. As the political landscape was changing rapidly, the chronological approach with the main focus on one person works quite well.
I have been interested in World War II for decades, and work permitting I watched documentaries and read books on the subject. Generally, they were on one aspect of The War at a time. This book has a great deal of detail and numerous footnotes which present a significant amount of specific information. It provides the basis of the politics at the end of the Weimar Republic and beginning of the Third Reich.
I strongly recommend this book to anyone wanting to clarify their understanding of events leading up to World War II in Europe (only a relatively small amount of the book mentions Japan). The writing is clear and the narrative is engaging; I found it difficult to put down.
I was given an e-galley of this book in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank Mac Nicholas and St. Martin’s Publishing Group, author Frank McDonough, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book!
I have been interested in World War II for decades, and work permitting I watched documentaries and read books on the subject. Generally, they were on one aspect of The War at a time. This book has a great deal of detail and numerous footnotes which present a significant amount of specific information. It provides the basis of the politics at the end of the Weimar Republic and beginning of the Third Reich.
I strongly recommend this book to anyone wanting to clarify their understanding of events leading up to World War II in Europe (only a relatively small amount of the book mentions Japan). The writing is clear and the narrative is engaging; I found it difficult to put down.
I was given an e-galley of this book in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank Mac Nicholas and St. Martin’s Publishing Group, author Frank McDonough, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book!
July 28, 2023
This book takes your chronologically through Hitler's rise to power and take over of Germany as well as the history of what was happening in Germany at the time. Each year is a chapter and the book ends at 1939.
I learned an incredible amount from this book. There were lots of primary sources from people's accounts of that time. My only issue with the book is that because it is set up chronologically there are a lot of names and places that get mentioned and it is often hard to keep track of all of the events as they happen blow by blow.
A dense read but a good one.
I learned an incredible amount from this book. There were lots of primary sources from people's accounts of that time. My only issue with the book is that because it is set up chronologically there are a lot of names and places that get mentioned and it is often hard to keep track of all of the events as they happen blow by blow.
A dense read but a good one.
March 22, 2021
The chronological approach leads to this being a very readable book.
June 2, 2021
The Hitler Years offers a detailed examination of the Rise of Hitler and the Nazis. It's an okay introduction to a novice reader who may have only the barest grasp of history. However, I found nothing new in this book that hasn't already been analyzed numerous times already. A few things did leap out at me that caused consternation. First, the author claims Hitler's regime was not an example of totalitarianism. That claim is ridiculous. Secondly, he questions Hitler's relationship with Eva Braun, speculating that it wasn't real. He also wonders if Braun's ingestion of 25 sleeping pills in 1935 was "a genuine suicide attempt." I was aghast at his assertion. I looked through all of his citations and sources and found only one for Braun. There have been several credible biographies written about her, which McDonough didn't bother to consult. At best, this book offers a cursory look at the rise of Hitler's regime, but it tends to be revisionism history in several aspects. Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the early copy.
May 29, 2022
Recommended Chronological Survey of Pre WWII Germany
Various histories exist about aspects of the rise, rule, and demise of Hitler’s Third Reich. These, however, focus on particular facets of these years in German history, such as Hitler himself, his henchmen individually and in groups, the fall of the Weimar, WWII military campaigns, the Holocaust, not to mention specific periods and events; it’s a very long list. Frank McDonough presents Germany’s history during the Hitler years year by year. He covers most all of the critical events that occurred in each year in politics, society, antisemitism, militarization, and international relations. Readers will be hard pressed to find a more comprehensive survey of Nazi Germany from Hitler’s seizure of power through the invasion of Poland and the start of WWII.
In reading this first of two volumes (volume two covers the war years and the disastrous end result of Hitler’s actions), a couple of things will immediately strike readers. If ever a man approached things with unyielding focus, Hitler certainly has to be that man, or near the top of the list. The German conservatives of the day (and later Neville Chamberlain) completely misread Hitler’s ultimate goal, saw only that he shared their hatred of democracy, and believed that they could harness him in pursuit of their objectives. How wrong they were. Hitler never hid his main aim, that of securing more land, which meant seizing it, either through wily and duplicitous negotiations and worthless pacts, or through outright war. While appeasement for the sake of peace at first seemed a reasonable approach, it eventually became apparent it would not work. However, this was never clear to Neville Chamberlain, a stubborn ideologue in his own fashion, who, as a result, devolved into an ineffective foil to Hitler’s dramatic guile, as illustrated in McDonough’s delineation of the various confrontations leading up to the invasion of Poland.
Hitler was a pretty hidebound ideologue and yet, when events called for it, he could show cunning flexibility. Things didn’t always go his way but he always seemed to turn the zig to his advantage, as McDonough shows repeatedly. For instance, Hitler and the Nazis espoused strictly traditional attitudes toward sexual relations, criminalizing prostitution and homosexuality (though party members weren’t above engaging in these themselves privately). When Minister of War Werner Blomberg, whose first wife had died, remarried in 1938, evidence came forth that his young new wife had been a registered prostitute and suspected thief. Shocking! After some machinations, Hitler tried replacing Blomberg with Werner von Fritsch. Then flew accusations of homosexuality against Fritsch, never proven. However, though never disclosed to the public, these affairs rocked Hitler and his government. But they also provided Hitler with a reason to assume total control of the Wehrmacht, with catastrophic results for Germany and the world.
Year by year, as McDonough shows, Hitler tightened his grip on the country, first by eliminating rivals, then suppressing all political opposition, controlling everything Germans heard and read, playing to an inherent Völkisch antisemitism, placating them with a variety of public works programs (good propaganda but mostly ineffective), and fulfilling on his promise of military strength and Lebensraum.
History has a way of repeating itself, especially when a population neglects to learn their own, so readers will find themselves seeing a very familiar picture, one currently unreeling in countries around the world, and now past the first act right here in America. (For an explanation focused solely on the authoritarian playbook, readers will be well served by NYU prof Ruth Ben-Ghiat’s highly recommended Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present.) McDonough’s history offers lessons on how Hitler did it by amplifying the fears and prejudices of his country to capture a government with a minority party.
Various histories exist about aspects of the rise, rule, and demise of Hitler’s Third Reich. These, however, focus on particular facets of these years in German history, such as Hitler himself, his henchmen individually and in groups, the fall of the Weimar, WWII military campaigns, the Holocaust, not to mention specific periods and events; it’s a very long list. Frank McDonough presents Germany’s history during the Hitler years year by year. He covers most all of the critical events that occurred in each year in politics, society, antisemitism, militarization, and international relations. Readers will be hard pressed to find a more comprehensive survey of Nazi Germany from Hitler’s seizure of power through the invasion of Poland and the start of WWII.
In reading this first of two volumes (volume two covers the war years and the disastrous end result of Hitler’s actions), a couple of things will immediately strike readers. If ever a man approached things with unyielding focus, Hitler certainly has to be that man, or near the top of the list. The German conservatives of the day (and later Neville Chamberlain) completely misread Hitler’s ultimate goal, saw only that he shared their hatred of democracy, and believed that they could harness him in pursuit of their objectives. How wrong they were. Hitler never hid his main aim, that of securing more land, which meant seizing it, either through wily and duplicitous negotiations and worthless pacts, or through outright war. While appeasement for the sake of peace at first seemed a reasonable approach, it eventually became apparent it would not work. However, this was never clear to Neville Chamberlain, a stubborn ideologue in his own fashion, who, as a result, devolved into an ineffective foil to Hitler’s dramatic guile, as illustrated in McDonough’s delineation of the various confrontations leading up to the invasion of Poland.
Hitler was a pretty hidebound ideologue and yet, when events called for it, he could show cunning flexibility. Things didn’t always go his way but he always seemed to turn the zig to his advantage, as McDonough shows repeatedly. For instance, Hitler and the Nazis espoused strictly traditional attitudes toward sexual relations, criminalizing prostitution and homosexuality (though party members weren’t above engaging in these themselves privately). When Minister of War Werner Blomberg, whose first wife had died, remarried in 1938, evidence came forth that his young new wife had been a registered prostitute and suspected thief. Shocking! After some machinations, Hitler tried replacing Blomberg with Werner von Fritsch. Then flew accusations of homosexuality against Fritsch, never proven. However, though never disclosed to the public, these affairs rocked Hitler and his government. But they also provided Hitler with a reason to assume total control of the Wehrmacht, with catastrophic results for Germany and the world.
Year by year, as McDonough shows, Hitler tightened his grip on the country, first by eliminating rivals, then suppressing all political opposition, controlling everything Germans heard and read, playing to an inherent Völkisch antisemitism, placating them with a variety of public works programs (good propaganda but mostly ineffective), and fulfilling on his promise of military strength and Lebensraum.
History has a way of repeating itself, especially when a population neglects to learn their own, so readers will find themselves seeing a very familiar picture, one currently unreeling in countries around the world, and now past the first act right here in America. (For an explanation focused solely on the authoritarian playbook, readers will be well served by NYU prof Ruth Ben-Ghiat’s highly recommended Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present.) McDonough’s history offers lessons on how Hitler did it by amplifying the fears and prejudices of his country to capture a government with a minority party.
May 31, 2021
Absorbing, riveting and fascinating, this book describes the power-hungry and ruthless Hitler's years between 1933 and 1939. He pitted country against country, race against race. He dominated, bullied, used brute force and deceit, January 30, 1933 changed history. As Goebbels said, "The new Reich has been born". Many bought his aggressive fervour and passionate hatred towards groups he felt got in his way. Not only did he despise Jews but felt the mentally challenged, homosexuals, the blind and deaf. He blamed the Jews and Bolsheviks for every problem. It is so hard to believe how many gravitated to such a man but he was charismatic, powerful, used masterful propaganda such as the Olympics and posters and offered economic hope after the Great War. However, Germany's standard of living was 50 per cent lower than that of the US. He capitalized on schisms such as Edward VIII's abdication and Japans Anti-Comintern Pact.
In this comprehensive book the author explains the election campaign with the slogan, "Build with Hitler". The brutal violence was astonishing. In February the Reichstag was started on fire which was a tipping point...it may have been started by the Nazis. Crimes committed by them were pardoned. Their heinous deeds soon included forced sterilization and Aryanization. So-called "degenerate" art was seized and burned. Books were burned. Purging of Jews became law. Not only that but whatever Hitler said became law, no need for voting. All other parties became obsolete. Trade unions were destroyed. Outraged, other countries banded together over the course of complex meetings to decide what was to be done. Stalin, Chamberlain and Mussolini were prominent figures, of course. Hitler was thrilled that Italy, Britain and France were at odds with one another.
My knowledge about this era really increased with reading this. It is the most thoroughly-researched book on the topic I've read. I learned more about Case Green and the complexities of what went on behind the scenes politically including aggressive land division, Germany's outrageous demands regarding Czechoslovakia, the atonement tax and assassination of a German diplomat by a Polish-Jewish refugee. I knew that Kristallnacht was horrific but did not know the extent. My grandparents fled Poland during this time. If only I had asked them more about it.
This book is breathtaking in its information as well as photographs, some of which are in colour which I hadn't seen before. If you desire to learn more about this time period please do read this. The author excels at describing things. Sadly, he experienced much personal sorrow while writing this book.
My sincere thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this sobering and riveting book.
In this comprehensive book the author explains the election campaign with the slogan, "Build with Hitler". The brutal violence was astonishing. In February the Reichstag was started on fire which was a tipping point...it may have been started by the Nazis. Crimes committed by them were pardoned. Their heinous deeds soon included forced sterilization and Aryanization. So-called "degenerate" art was seized and burned. Books were burned. Purging of Jews became law. Not only that but whatever Hitler said became law, no need for voting. All other parties became obsolete. Trade unions were destroyed. Outraged, other countries banded together over the course of complex meetings to decide what was to be done. Stalin, Chamberlain and Mussolini were prominent figures, of course. Hitler was thrilled that Italy, Britain and France were at odds with one another.
My knowledge about this era really increased with reading this. It is the most thoroughly-researched book on the topic I've read. I learned more about Case Green and the complexities of what went on behind the scenes politically including aggressive land division, Germany's outrageous demands regarding Czechoslovakia, the atonement tax and assassination of a German diplomat by a Polish-Jewish refugee. I knew that Kristallnacht was horrific but did not know the extent. My grandparents fled Poland during this time. If only I had asked them more about it.
This book is breathtaking in its information as well as photographs, some of which are in colour which I hadn't seen before. If you desire to learn more about this time period please do read this. The author excels at describing things. Sadly, he experienced much personal sorrow while writing this book.
My sincere thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this sobering and riveting book.
June 23, 2021
A very detailed overview of Hitler's Years from 1933-1939. Well researched and I found it very interesting. It is a book on history so at times there is a lot of information coming at you, that said it's still quite good.
Hitler became Chancellor of Germany in 1933. For some reason, all the other nations thought they would be able to keep him in check. At first it seemed that would be possible, but he was just reorganizing his plans. Hitler, I found out, was actually quite the politician. He knew how to get things done and could turn things that went against what he wanted to his advantage.
I learned quite a lot reading this book. I always thought that Hitler had started his extermations at the concentration camps. This is not true. A few years before that actually happened he started the T4 program. The program was a way for him to get rid of children under 5 of the less desirable race, the mentally ill and the disabled. Thousands were killed in hospitals by being sent into showers, locked in, then gassed. Just like Hitler had done in the Concentration camps.
Hitler was manipulative. Crazy as Hell, I think. A demon as on person put it in the book. What he did in these 6 years leading up to the invasion of Poland and the start of WWII can't be all laid at his feet though, as I learned. Chamberlain, for one, was so set on peace with Germany, he ignored any other way of handling Germany, until it came to late. When Germany first invaded Czechoslovakia, Britian and France should have stood up to Hitler. Germany's armed forces were small during this time and couldn't have lasted against both of them. They let Hitler get by with what he did, so Hitler thought let me see what else I can do.
The reason I gave this book only 4 ⭐, though it was really good. Some of the pictures in it didn't correspond with the description. I got confused during that time, though there weren't many. Another reason is that I have always wondered what made him want an Aryan race, when he himself was not blonde or blue-eyed. I understand that he blamed the Jews for the loss of WWI, that's why he went after them. But, other than he being crazy as a Bessy Bug, what was he thinking? I mean, God help us, if Germany would have won WWII, but don't you think eventually all the Aryans would have thought, hey, why are we following this brown/black haired, brown-eyed guy, when we are superior. I don't know just a thought. I do know I am very happy Germany lost.
This book was sad to me. To think that one person could literally wipeout a generation of people, for nothing but hatred, is incomprehensible to me. Some of the things the Nazi's did are so inhumane, well let me say just about all they did was inhumane.
This is only the first volume in the Hitler Years. There is a second and I plan on reading it, and spoiler, can't wait until Hitler kills himself, because after all he was just a bully and coward. If you like reading about WWII, this book is a must for you, I think. Happy Reading 😊
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read the Kindle Version of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Hitler became Chancellor of Germany in 1933. For some reason, all the other nations thought they would be able to keep him in check. At first it seemed that would be possible, but he was just reorganizing his plans. Hitler, I found out, was actually quite the politician. He knew how to get things done and could turn things that went against what he wanted to his advantage.
I learned quite a lot reading this book. I always thought that Hitler had started his extermations at the concentration camps. This is not true. A few years before that actually happened he started the T4 program. The program was a way for him to get rid of children under 5 of the less desirable race, the mentally ill and the disabled. Thousands were killed in hospitals by being sent into showers, locked in, then gassed. Just like Hitler had done in the Concentration camps.
Hitler was manipulative. Crazy as Hell, I think. A demon as on person put it in the book. What he did in these 6 years leading up to the invasion of Poland and the start of WWII can't be all laid at his feet though, as I learned. Chamberlain, for one, was so set on peace with Germany, he ignored any other way of handling Germany, until it came to late. When Germany first invaded Czechoslovakia, Britian and France should have stood up to Hitler. Germany's armed forces were small during this time and couldn't have lasted against both of them. They let Hitler get by with what he did, so Hitler thought let me see what else I can do.
The reason I gave this book only 4 ⭐, though it was really good. Some of the pictures in it didn't correspond with the description. I got confused during that time, though there weren't many. Another reason is that I have always wondered what made him want an Aryan race, when he himself was not blonde or blue-eyed. I understand that he blamed the Jews for the loss of WWI, that's why he went after them. But, other than he being crazy as a Bessy Bug, what was he thinking? I mean, God help us, if Germany would have won WWII, but don't you think eventually all the Aryans would have thought, hey, why are we following this brown/black haired, brown-eyed guy, when we are superior. I don't know just a thought. I do know I am very happy Germany lost.
This book was sad to me. To think that one person could literally wipeout a generation of people, for nothing but hatred, is incomprehensible to me. Some of the things the Nazi's did are so inhumane, well let me say just about all they did was inhumane.
This is only the first volume in the Hitler Years. There is a second and I plan on reading it, and spoiler, can't wait until Hitler kills himself, because after all he was just a bully and coward. If you like reading about WWII, this book is a must for you, I think. Happy Reading 😊
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read the Kindle Version of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 11, 2023
Today's nonfiction post is on The Hitler Years: Triumph, 1933-1939 by Frank McDonough. It is 496 pages long and is published by St. Martin's Press. The cover is a picture is a Nazi rally. The intended reader is someone who is interested in what was really going in Germany during the lead-up to World War II. There is no foul language, no sex, and discussion of violence in this book. There Be Spoilers Ahead.
From the dust jacket- From historian Frank McDonough, the first volume of a new chronicle of the Third Reich under Hitler's hand.
On January 30, 1933, Adolf Hitler was appointed the German chancellor of a coalition government by President Hindenburg. Within a few months, he had installed a dictatorship, jailing and killing his left-wing opponents, terrorizing the rest of the population, and driving Jews out of public life. He embarked on a crash program of militaristic Keynesianism, reviving the economy and achieving a full employment through massive public works, vast armaments' spending, and the cancellations of foreign debts. After the grim years of the Great Depression, Germany seemed to have been reborn as a brutal and determined European power.
From 1933 to 1939, Hitler won over most of the population with his vision of a renewed Reich. In these years of domestic triumph and cunning maneuvers, pitting neighboring powers against each other and biding his time, we see Hitler preparing for the moment that would realize his ambition. But what drove Hitler's success was also to be the fatal flaw of his regime: a relentless belief in was as the motor of greatness, a dream of vast conquests in Eastern Europe, and an astonishingly fanatical racism.
In The Hitler Years, Frank McDonough charts the rise and fall of the Third Reich under Hitler through Germany's comprehensive military defeat of Poland in 1939.
Review- A very interesting way to read about World War II, year by year following Hitler and his closest followers. The book starts with some background in Germany and Hitler before he came to power. Year by year, the book goes from all the events that helped build Hitler's power both in Germany and on the world stage. The notes at the back are very useful and provide good insight, not only into Hitler but those closest to him. With many excellent first hand documents, McDonough presents the reader with a very comprehensive piece about World War II and Germany from the inside. I would recommend this book.
I give this book a Five out of Five stars. I get nothing for my review and I borrowed this book from my local library.
From the dust jacket- From historian Frank McDonough, the first volume of a new chronicle of the Third Reich under Hitler's hand.
On January 30, 1933, Adolf Hitler was appointed the German chancellor of a coalition government by President Hindenburg. Within a few months, he had installed a dictatorship, jailing and killing his left-wing opponents, terrorizing the rest of the population, and driving Jews out of public life. He embarked on a crash program of militaristic Keynesianism, reviving the economy and achieving a full employment through massive public works, vast armaments' spending, and the cancellations of foreign debts. After the grim years of the Great Depression, Germany seemed to have been reborn as a brutal and determined European power.
From 1933 to 1939, Hitler won over most of the population with his vision of a renewed Reich. In these years of domestic triumph and cunning maneuvers, pitting neighboring powers against each other and biding his time, we see Hitler preparing for the moment that would realize his ambition. But what drove Hitler's success was also to be the fatal flaw of his regime: a relentless belief in was as the motor of greatness, a dream of vast conquests in Eastern Europe, and an astonishingly fanatical racism.
In The Hitler Years, Frank McDonough charts the rise and fall of the Third Reich under Hitler through Germany's comprehensive military defeat of Poland in 1939.
Review- A very interesting way to read about World War II, year by year following Hitler and his closest followers. The book starts with some background in Germany and Hitler before he came to power. Year by year, the book goes from all the events that helped build Hitler's power both in Germany and on the world stage. The notes at the back are very useful and provide good insight, not only into Hitler but those closest to him. With many excellent first hand documents, McDonough presents the reader with a very comprehensive piece about World War II and Germany from the inside. I would recommend this book.
I give this book a Five out of Five stars. I get nothing for my review and I borrowed this book from my local library.
July 2, 2021
Author and historian Frank McDonough (http://proffrankmcdonough.com) published the book “The Hitler Years: Triumph, 1933-1939” in 2021. Professor McDonough has published more than a dozen books.
I received an ARC of this book through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this book as ‘PG. The book covers the period between 1933 and 1939. Adolf Hitler ascends during this period becoming the undisputed leader of Nazi Germany.
The book was an interesting read. It covers the politics and intrigue that went on in 1930s Germany. It follows Hitler as he is appointed Chancellor then as he is named the Fürher. Hitler was brutal to those that opposed him. Many opponents were arrested, beaten, or sent to the camps. Some just disappeared.
Hitler won over the population by creating jobs and stimulating the economy. He and the Nazis used the common sentiment against the Jews. Many felt the Jews were responsible for WWI and for the economic situation. He first drove them out of their positions then gathered them for the camps. Hitler was a clever politician during these early years. He used threats and political arrangements to achieve his goals. He used political maneuvering to bully and intimidate various powers of Europe.
I enjoyed the 16 hours I spent reading this 496-page history. While this book was very academic and full of details, it was also very readable. There was far more political maneuvering during these years than I had realized. I do like the chosen cover art. I give this book a 4 out of 5.
You can access more of my book reviews on my Blog ( https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/).
I received an ARC of this book through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this book as ‘PG. The book covers the period between 1933 and 1939. Adolf Hitler ascends during this period becoming the undisputed leader of Nazi Germany.
The book was an interesting read. It covers the politics and intrigue that went on in 1930s Germany. It follows Hitler as he is appointed Chancellor then as he is named the Fürher. Hitler was brutal to those that opposed him. Many opponents were arrested, beaten, or sent to the camps. Some just disappeared.
Hitler won over the population by creating jobs and stimulating the economy. He and the Nazis used the common sentiment against the Jews. Many felt the Jews were responsible for WWI and for the economic situation. He first drove them out of their positions then gathered them for the camps. Hitler was a clever politician during these early years. He used threats and political arrangements to achieve his goals. He used political maneuvering to bully and intimidate various powers of Europe.
I enjoyed the 16 hours I spent reading this 496-page history. While this book was very academic and full of details, it was also very readable. There was far more political maneuvering during these years than I had realized. I do like the chosen cover art. I give this book a 4 out of 5.
You can access more of my book reviews on my Blog ( https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/).
October 19, 2021
So, on we march through our 20th century history trek; with the rise of the Nazis next on the agenda. This is the one I've been waiting to get my teeth stuck in to and I thought the best place to start before reading detailed accounts was to find a book which gave a general summary of the events that unfolded in Europe and the German Reich during the 1930s. Frank McDonough's telling of events, however, is so much more than a summary, it is an absolutely fantastic read from start to finish. Yes, it draws a lot from the definitive accounts of William L. Shirer and Ian Kershaw but it packs the vital info in at the right times and keeps you glued to the constant turning of events during that period.
The thing that most impressed me was the sheer amount of thoughts and opinions of the major players in this war. The diary entries, the memoirs and just the general feeling of Hitler's officers throughout the campaign. The thoughts of the European diplomats and ambassadors made for a real dynamic and fascinating read throughout. I was always under the impression that the Nazi regime stood for real unity and a common goal but the info from personal journals suggests a constant conflict of interest between the top brass. All in all, an excellently non-biased, accessible account bursting with facts and nuggets of info that I wasn't aware of and just a really interesting read from beginning to end. It's free with Prime Reading t'boot!
The thing that most impressed me was the sheer amount of thoughts and opinions of the major players in this war. The diary entries, the memoirs and just the general feeling of Hitler's officers throughout the campaign. The thoughts of the European diplomats and ambassadors made for a real dynamic and fascinating read throughout. I was always under the impression that the Nazi regime stood for real unity and a common goal but the info from personal journals suggests a constant conflict of interest between the top brass. All in all, an excellently non-biased, accessible account bursting with facts and nuggets of info that I wasn't aware of and just a really interesting read from beginning to end. It's free with Prime Reading t'boot!
August 23, 2023
Competent narrative of the build-up to the Second World War that never strays into any meaningful academia but equally doesn't, from my view, offer anything really new (in terms either of material or of interpretation) to anyone who's read any such histories of the period previously. If you're new to the topic, for example a first year History student about to take on a History of Germany module, this will be useful to firm up your narrative history of the events but beyond that has no real depth.
McDonough does weigh up various events and it's good to see hints of interpreting Germany's actions in the 1930s through the prism of colonialism (see also: Blood and Ruins: The Great Imperial War, 1931-1945). It's enjoyable and interesting but somewhat superficial.
McDonough does weigh up various events and it's good to see hints of interpreting Germany's actions in the 1930s through the prism of colonialism (see also: Blood and Ruins: The Great Imperial War, 1931-1945). It's enjoyable and interesting but somewhat superficial.
June 25, 2021
The Hitler Years: Triumph is a non fiction book detailing the situations that led to World War II. This book is a general history of how Hitler rose to power and how the World ignored lot of signs on what was to come. The author has documented very well all the details that happened in Germany during those times economically, diplomatically and financially. It was interesting to read the formation of SS and how SS and Gestapo eventually became so powerful.
This book is definitely huge but definitely will interest readers who are interested in reading about the events leading up to the War. With plenty of pictures this is a good read.
This book is definitely huge but definitely will interest readers who are interested in reading about the events leading up to the War. With plenty of pictures this is a good read.
February 20, 2022
I read this and the second book (1939-45). It is a readable, year by year account of Hitler's rise to power until his suicide. I can't judge the accuracy of McDonough treatment, but it gives the impression of being unbiased and well judged. What the author can do is to summarize complex events in a way that makes them easy to read and comprehensible without simplifying too much. The fact I read both volumes is a triumph of Amazon marketing. I was offered a loan of volume one for nothing (presumably because I was reading German novels about this period) and I was sufficiently taken with it to buy the second volume.
June 1, 2021
I received this book as an ARC and this is my review. I loved this book! Author Frank McDonough has created an historical masterpiece with an amazing amount of detailed research. I have read several books about Hitler and the Third Reich and this one tops them all! There are numerous private meetings and anecdotes presented throughout this book. The relationships among the well-known world figures are extremely well-drawn. I totally recommend this book to anyone who is interested in this period of history - this is THE definitive documentation. I cannot wait for Volume Two!
July 6, 2021
I received this an ARC through Netgalley. The Hitler Years provides an in-depth look as to how and why Hitler rose to power. It is extremely detailed and thoughtfully written. The amount of time in research for a book like this must have been immense. The pictures throughout were a wonderful touch. While this is a work of non-fiction, I did not feel that it dragged at all or was difficult to understand. While there are a lot of details shared, I never felt lost in the text. Excited to read the next installment by Frank McDonough.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews